I ♥ Macau

Last year (2013) Dan and I were fortunate to have traveled to three Philippine destinations: Boracay, Bohol and Cebu. We wanted to go around the country on our first year of marriage and we both confirmed how beautiful the Philippines is. This year, we opted to visit nearby Asian destinations to immerse ourselves in different cultures with the hope that we will learn to appreciate our own culture more.

We have made an agreement that every time we go out for a holiday, we will go DIY (do-it-yourself). Although there were times that I have been tempted to get tour packages offered by trusted agencies, the idea of exploring a foreign land with just a map and my ever-reliable instinct on hand proved to be more appealing.

Our first trip was in Macau, dubbed as Asia's Gambling Capital. But more than the numerous casinos that are found practically everywhere, this Chinese territory, once colonized by Portugal, has so much more to offer.

The hotel where we stayed was only a 10-minute walk to the city's famous landmarks such as Senado Square, Ruins of St. Paul and the casino strip. I don't remember taking any public transport on our first day. We did a lot of walking but we never felt tired a bit.

Senado Square at night. We found Senado Square serendipitously as we were trying to look for a nearby money exchange. Hailing a cab to get to the Senado Square, Ruins of St. Paul and the casino strip was no longer an option. Good thing, it's a walking-friendly city.

Senado Square.

I always make it a point to check out the street food of the place I visit. This one is not for the fainthearted. Their fare is a little too spicy for my palate.

Getting cozy at St. Paul's Ruins.

We also did casino-hopping, NOT to play but to check out its grand interiors. And boy, we weren't disappointed!

Our first stop was The Venetian.